The US Senate has rejected a resolution that would deprive President Donald Trump of the right to use military force against Venezuela without Congressional approval. Republicans blocked the Democrats' initiative with a result of 51 votes against 49. This was reported by Reuters.
The decision was made against the background of statements made by representatives of the US administration the day before that Washington is currently not planning military strikes on the territory of Venezuela.
According to the agency, the overwhelming majority of Republicans in The Senate demonstrated support for Trump's military campaign in the Caribbean region. Only two of their party colleagues joined the Democrats.
According to official data, since the beginning of September, the US military has carried out at least 16 strikes on ships off the coast of Venezuela, as a result of which more than 65 people have been killed. These actions have raised fears of a possible escalation of the conflict with a direct invasion of Venezuela, which prompted a group of senators led by Democrats Tim Kaine and Adam Schiff, as well as Republican Rand Paul, to come up with a restraining resolution.
The United States is launching missile strikes on ships off the coast of Venezuela, which, according to them, are involved in the transportation of drugs. The Trump administration explains these actions as a "war" against organized crime — back in January 2025, cartels were equated with terrorist organizations.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the United States has already identified possible military targets in Venezuela, including infrastructure facilities that may be associated with drug trafficking. At the same time, Trump has not yet made a final decision on expanding the operation.
Venezuela categorically rejects accusations of involvement in drug trafficking. President Nicolas Maduro announced the mobilization of the police to "repel the United States," stressing the country's readiness to defend its sovereignty.